Sekai Manyere-Herald Reporter
WOMEN should seek prompt medical attention for unusual breast changes, with health experts warning that delays in diagnosis can reduce the chances of successful treatment and survival.
The call was made at the launch of a breast cancer awareness campaign at Headquarters 2 Infantry Brigade, where Zimbabwe Defence Forces Women’s Association chairperson Mrs Sithandelile Matatu stressed the importance of early detection.
“Our message is clear, early detection saves lives,” she said.
The event was held under the theme: “Every story is unique and every journey matters.”
Mrs Matatu urged women to become familiar with their bodies and seek medical assessment whenever they notice unusual changes, emphasising that fear and shame should not prevent them from accessing healthcare.
“No one should be afraid or ashamed to seek medical assistance,” she said.
Breast cancer remained a major public health concern, making it important for awareness initiatives to extend beyond organised campaigns and reach families and communities.
Mrs Matatu linked health and wellbeing to the effectiveness of the defence forces, saying the welfare of serving members and their families was essential to morale, productivity and operational readiness.
“Good health is a bedrock of national security. A healthy force is a stronger force,” she said.
Men should support partners, relatives and colleagues affected by breast cancer and medical personnel must provide accurate information, professional guidance and compassionate care.
Mrs Matatu encouraged patients to remain hopeful, follow professional medical advice and draw support from their families and communities.
“The success of this initiative will be measured by the positive actions we take to protect lives from today onwards.”
Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals chief medical officer Dr Tsitsi Magure said the fight against breast cancer required a collective effort involving healthcare providers, families, employers and communities.
“Fighting breast cancer is not the responsibility of the health sector alone. It is a shared national responsibility,” she said.
Dr Magure said breast cancer remained one of the leading cancers affecting women, with many patients still presenting at advanced stages despite the availability of treatment options.
Women should attend recommended screening appointments and seek medical assessment for unusual lumps, swelling, skin changes or nipple discharge.
“Do not wait for pain and healthcare professionals should reduce delays in diagnosis, strengthen referral pathways and provide compassionate patient-centred care,” said Dr Magure.
Families, employers, faith leaders and community organisations to help create an environment where women could seek medical attention without fear, stigma or discrimination.
Dr Magure said the Ministry of Health remained committed to strengthening breast cancer awareness, screening, diagnosis, treatment, referral systems and patient support.
“Let us move beyond awareness to sustained action: more informed communities, earlier assessment, timely referrals and better access to treatment and support,” she said.
